Scheduling

SCHEDULING

Orthodontic treatment involves a significant amount of time, preparation and commitment from the patient, his or her family, and our team. It is an ongoing process that is not completed in only one visit. We strive to do as much as possible at each appointment to ensure that fewer visits will be needed and that the overall treatment time will be within the given estimate. We want to be considerate of your work and school obligations and have created a finely crafted schedule that provides both the structure and flexibility needed to achieve everyone’s goal: quality treatment.

The times and types of appointments needed vary as each adjustment is made. Typically, we reserve longer appointments earlier in the day during school or work hours. These appointments require uninterrupted doctor time for delicate procedures, such as new patient consultations, brackets placement and removal, diagnostic records, laser procedures and repairs of broken appliances. The majority of the remaining appointments for routine adjustments, progress checks, retainer visits and observation are shorter (15″ to 30″ minutes) and are typically scheduled in the early morning and late afternoon.

However, it is impossible to schedule only after school and Saturday appointments. We will do our best to accommodate you during the least important school activities, such as study hall, gym or even lunch. Many of our Downers Grove patients walk to our office from Herrick and North High School. If you cannot keep a scheduled appointment, please give us preferably 48-24 hours advanced notice. This courtesy on your part allows us to give your appointment to another patient.

We make every effort possible to be on time and ask that you extend the same courtesy to us. If you are late, we may have to reschedule your appointment. It is important to keep your appointments as consistent as possible. Cancel only if it is unavoidable or you are ill to prevent significant delay in treatment. It can be difficult to reschedule since most appointments are made four to eight weeks in advance. Adhering to this schedule will result in everyone getting their fair share of convenient appointments. If you prefer to come to the office during quieter times, please schedule an appointment during school hours.

SPECIAL (EMERGENCY) APPOINTMENTS

There are very few true emergencies in orthodontics that will require immediate attention. Most of these problems can be easily taken care at home, until the patient can be seen in the office. For problems that can be resolved at home, click here. When brackets, bands or appliances are loose and bothering you, we will make every effort to see you immediately. A problem is anything that pokes, scratches, cuts, or causes pain that you cannot take care of yourself. Call us to get an appointment time where there will be little or no wait, to make you comfortable. Should you have an emergency after hours or on the weekends, please call our office and follow the instructions to call the doctor. She will return your call as soon as possible.